Police raid, destroy bandits’ camps in Benue

The Benue State Police Command has dismantled several bandits’ hideouts located along the Makurdi–Yelwata and Makurdi–Naka routes.

Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, disclosed this while receiving members of the Forum of Investigative Journalists (FoIJ), led by Tamenor Kwaghzer, in his office.

According to him, the existence of those camps had emboldened criminals to carry out violent attacks on commuters and residents in the affected areas.

He explained that the clearance operations not only dislodged the hoodlums but also drastically curtailed incidents of ambush and robbery along the routes.

CP Emenari noted that before his deployment to Benue, violent crimes on the highways were rampant, but recent security interventions have brought about a remarkable decline.

He, however, admitted that isolated cases of attacks still occur, mostly linked to suspected herders who infiltrate the state to target unsuspecting victims.

The Police Commissioner assured the public of the Command’s resolve to sustain the fight until lasting peace is achieved. He urged residents to provide credible information that could help security agencies track down what he described as “enemies of the people.”

He further stated that poor road conditions remain a major factor aiding criminal activities, as bandits often take advantage of the terrain.

Emenari appealed to citizens to embrace peace and cooperate with security operatives, stressing that while crime may not be completely eliminated, collective efforts would greatly minimize it.

“It is better to live in peace than in crisis,” he emphasized, reaffirming that the Command remains committed to protecting lives and property, especially as the Ember months approach.